USCIS requires that all foreign language documents submitted with your immigration applications (Green Card, naturalization, work permit, etc.) be accompanied by a full English translation.

But not just any translation – it must be 'certified.' This guide explains exactly what a certified translation is, who can certify it, and the specific formatting USCIS expects to avoid rejection or a Request for Evidence (RFE).

What USCIS Regulation Says (8 CFR 103.2(b)(3))

The Code of Federal Regulations states: 'Any foreign language document submitted to USCIS shall be accompanied by a full English language translation which the translator has certified as complete and accurate, and by the translator's certification printed legibly.'

Key point: The translator does not need to be a 'certified court translator' or a professional agency. A bilingual friend or family member can certify, except for the applicant themselves or their immediate petitioner.

Required Elements of a USCIS-Certified Translation

Every certified translation must include a signed certification statement with these six components:

  • 1. A statement that the translator is competent to translate from the foreign language into English.
  • 2. A statement that the translation is 'full and accurate' (word-for-word, no omissions).
  • 3. The translator's printed name and signature.
  • 4. The date of the translation.
  • 5. The translator's contact information (address, phone, or email).
  • 6. Identification of the translated document (title, date, number of pages).

Sample Certification Wording (Copy/Paste This)

Here is a template that USCIS accepts:

CERTIFICATION OF TRANSLATION

I, [Translator's Full Name], hereby certify that I am competent to translate from [Foreign Language] into English, and that the attached translation of [Document Name, e.g., 'Birth Certificate of Maria Gonzalez'] is a full, true, and accurate translation of the original document.

I have not omitted or added any content.

Translator's Signature: _________________

Printed Name: _________________

Date: _________________

Address: _________________

Email/Phone: _________________

Print this certification, sign it, and attach it to the English translation. Do not staple directly to the original foreign document.

Who CAN Certify Translations for USCIS?

  • Bilingual family members (spouse, adult child, parent) – allowed, provided they are not the applicant themselves.
  • Friends or neighbors – allowed, even without professional credentials.
  • Professional translation agencies – allowed, and they often include a notary seal (though not required).
  • Community or religious organization volunteers – allowed.

Who CANNOT Certify Translations for USCIS?

  • The applicant themselves – USCIS prohibits self-certification (conflict of interest).
  • The person who is the subject of the document (e.g., you cannot translate your own birth certificate).
  • The petitioner (e.g., a U.S. citizen spouse cannot translate their spouse's foreign documents).
Pro tip: To be safe, use a friend or paid translator who has no direct interest in your immigration case.

Common Mistakes That Trigger an RFE

USCIS will send a Request for Evidence (delaying your case by 2–6 months) if your translation lacks:

  • A signature (digital signatures are accepted if printed and scanned).
  • The date of translation (must be roughly contemporaneous with filing).
  • Identification of the document (e.g., 'Translation of Chinese birth certificate for Li Wei, document dated 1990-05-12').
  • The full foreign document – missing pages invalidate the translation.

Also, do not submit the original foreign document unless requested. Send a clear photocopy of the original + the certified translation + certification page.

What About Notarization? Is It Required?

No. USCIS does not require notarization of translations. However, some applicants choose to notarize the translator's signature to prove identity – this is optional but can add credibility for rare languages.

In summary, a certified translation for USCIS is simple: a friend translates the document, writes the certification statement above, signs and dates it.

Attach it to a copy of the original. Never translate your own documents.

Avoid expensive 'official' services unless you have complex legal terminology (medical records, contracts).